Plastics

Promoting recyclability with near infrared pigments

Dani Lladó

Global Product Manager, Plastics

17 December 2023

3 mins

Plastics

Promoting recyclability with near infrared pigments

Dani Lladó

Global Product Manager, Plastics

17th December 2023

3 mins

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Companies often use color in product packaging to distinguish and elevate their brands. Amid the kaleidoscope to choose from, the world of packaging has progressively embraced the allure of black and darker colors. Black has become a statement for brand packaging because it is often associated with elegance, luxury and high quality; can represent modernity and timelessness; provides contrast on store shelves to attract attention; and can help block out light and protect products.

Beyond the allure of black in packaging, particularly plastic packaging, it can create difficulties when recycling. Modern plastic recycling operations utilize near infrared (NIR) technology in their processing equipment to sort materials efficiently. Under such conditions, plastics colored with traditional carbon black pigment are largely undetectable, causing plastics that could and should be recycled to be unnecessarily discarded, contributing to landfill waste. This issue also affects other dark colors that utilize carbon black at low dosages, like dark blues, greens, browns and reds.

The need for enhanced plastic recycling

With environmental consciousness at the forefront of global discourse, the need for sustainable solutions to address plastic pollution is undeniable. Plastics alone contribute significantly to environmental degradation, with an estimated 14 million metric tons entering oceans annually.

As consumers and brands commit to more sustainable practices, packaging producers are increasingly considering a variety of solutions to support the recyclability of dark plastics including:

Converting packaging material to a nonplastic, typically contributing to an increase in cost.
Altering color of packaging, which can negatively impact brand identity.
Incorporating an innovative technology, like near-infrared (NIR) reflecting pigments, to encourage recyclability and enhance efficiency.

NIR reflecting pigments pave the way for a more circular plastic economy

NIR pigments are engineered to reflect near-infrared light, making it easier for automated sorting systems to distinguish between various types of plastics during recycling.

Key advantages of NIR pigments include:

Improved sorting accuracy: Enhances the accuracy of sorting processes in recycling facilities. Automated sorting systems equipped with NIR technology can efficiently identify and separate plastics based on their reflective properties.
Increased recycling rates: Improved accuracy in plastic sorting can help increase recycling rates by reducing contamination.
Cost-effective recycling: NIR reflecting pigments aid automation in sorting processes so recycling facilities can streamline their operations and optimize resources.
Environmental impact: More effective and accurate recycling through the use of NIR reflecting pigments has the potential to be a reliable contributor to overall plastic pollution reduction.

Vibrantz helps improve the recycling of dark plastics

We are the leading global supplier of inorganic pigments and provide NIR-detectable black pigments for dark plastic recycling that meet food contact regulations.

Our flagship NIR reflecting product Nubifer® NB-803K FCP (pigment black 33) is a moderate NIR reflecting black with low magnetism, improving color strength and sort-ability. Nubifer NB-803K FCP is also FDA and EU 10/2011 compliant, allowing the product to be used on plastics in contact with food.

We also offer a Nubifer 24-3950 FCP (pigment brown 29), which is an NIR reflecting FDA-approved pigment that enhances shade intensity without losing opacity. Contact us to learn more about our expanded portfolio of pigments.

Dani Lladó

Global Product Manager, Plastics

Dani Lladó

Global Product Manager, Plastics

Lladó has more than 20 years of technical and commercial experience in the pigments industry. He joined Nubiola (later acquired by Ferro) in 2004 where he held various technical and marketing roles related to plastics. Lladó resides in Barcelona and has a chemistry degree from the Universidad de Barcelona and a master’s degree in marketing from EADA Business School.

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Enamels, Glass

Shaping a bright future

27 March 2024 3 mins

In 2023, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration reported the warmest year on record, and forecasts indicate that 2024 will follow this trend. Despite growing climate concerns, there is optimism surrounding efforts to cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Global renewable energy capacity surged by nearly 50% last year, with solar photovoltaic (PV) implementation leading the charge, particularly in China.

In an effort to combat rising GHG emissions that result in environmental challenges like heat waves, heavy rainfall and coastal flooding, societies and governments are increasingly investing in renewable energy and alternative energy infrastructure. This momentum has sparked innovation in the glass coatings industry, aimed at creating durable solar panels, greener buildings and sustainable transportation solutions. For over 100 years, Vibrantz has supplied the consumer and industrial manufacturing markets with sustainable solutions for glass coatings.

Vibrantz engineers coatings to withstand the elements

The expansion of the alternative energy market has prompted efforts to enhance the efficiency and durability of glass. Vibrantz engineers enamel coatings and ceramic digital inks for glass, offering an array of functional benefits like impact-protectant surfaces, non-stick properties and near-invisible coating to enhance durability while allowing light transfer.

Some of our key products include:

99% solar white enamel for screen printing onto solar glass
Digital ceramic inkjet printing inks for building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV)
Traditional and digital ceramic inks that offer chemical and weather resistance, ultra-violet (UV) stability and scratch protection for architectural and construction glass
Enamels and digital inks with enhanced durability and UV protection for transportation and automotive glass

The charge toward solar

As the demand for solar panels continues to rise, they are being incorporated into a wide range of structures beyond traditional rooftops including parking garages, sports facilities and agricultural facilities. To meet this growing need, Vibrantz provides specialized inks that enhance structural strength, offer UV protection, ensure weather resistance and more.

For example, our 99% solar white enamel is screen printed onto laminated glass, improving panel battery life and power-generating efficiency. To further bolster the panel, solar white enamel increases reflectivity and acid resistance, while reducing enamel breakdown. This allows the battery to collect more sunlight and enhances overall performance.

Eco-awareness by solar can also be achieved alongside aesthetic benefits. BIPV offers a middle ground facilitated by our digital ceramic inks, utilizing images of traditional roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles or terra cotta, printed onto solar modules and enables high light transmittance. Additionally, our inks replicate the appearance of wall claddings by digitally printing images of materials like brick or cedar onto solar glass.

“As global leaders with over a century of experience in glass coatings, we are determined to provide the best service and solutions for our customers, especially through innovations in product performance.”
– Jasper Li, Porcelain Glass Coatings Business Manager, China

Your comprehensive partner in glass coatings

Contact our team of experts to learn more about our expansive portfolio of world-class coatings and materials for solar applications, sustainable construction, transportation and automotive glasses. We work alongside our customers to solve today’s challenges and create a brighter future for future generations.

Electronics

Elevating your everyday with efficient home upgrades

27 March 2024 4 mins

Working to combat climate change is often associated with solutions like recycling plastic bottles, repurposing glass jars for food storage or reducing disposable utensil use. However, there exist additional and simple changes that each of us can make in our day to day at home, such as how we dry clothes, cook food or power our appliances. Approximately 20% of energy-related greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions come from heating, cooling and powering households in the United States.

Recognizing this, climate experts have diligently provided resources and education to help individuals make micro-level changes, such as electrifying stoves, using induction cooktops or producing more efficient consumer electronics. Government-backed organizations, administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or the U.S. Department of Energy, for example, offer guidance on finding energy-efficient appliances and accessing government tax credits for greener purchases. Similarly, non-profit organizations worldwide exist to partner with families and businesses to provide simple and credible information that consumers can rely on to make well-informed climate-aligned decisions and receive incentives for home efficiencies and electrification.

The push toward electrification is gaining momentum globally as advanced economies around the world embrace the urgency of addressing climate change. Whether one rents an apartment, owns a home or lives in a recreational vehicle, upgrades to electronics and lifestyle adjustments can significantly contribute to solving the larger climate challenge. By adopting simple yet practical changes like using an electric kettle instead of a gas stove or upgrading to a more efficient water heater, individuals can reduce their carbon footprint and save on energy bills.

We play a vital role in powering electronics and appliances

Vibrantz offers premium heater on steel (HOS) paste systems that protect electronics by acting as insulators, preventing the conduction of electricity. High-quality paste systems result in greater product reliability and serve various functions including:

Electrical insulation of electronic or appliance heating elements such as wires or coils
Insulation of stainless or austenitic steel parts
Prevention of electrical hazards and short circuits
Additional layers of protection from external factors like dust, moisture and physical damage
Creation of conductive pathways for electrical currents to flow safely
Precise control over the amount of heat produced and accurate adjustment of temperature levels in the heating system

Our HOS paste systems make electronics and home appliances more efficient in an array of everyday products like electric tea kettles, milk frothers, tankless water heaters and coffee makers.

Vibrantz’s technologies in consumer appliances and electronics

Choosing efficient electronics and appliances is paramount to support renewable energy initiatives. Our HOS applications offer systems tailored to meet stringent requirements. Our expertise is evident in key aspects including:

Compatibility: We ensure that our systems integrate with specific substrates and the end product will be adaptable to diverse environments and harsh conditions and provide long-term performance.

Reliability: With over a century of experience, we leverage our expertise to offer superior-performing products that are trusted worldwide.

Versatility: Our solutions are customized to meet the unique requirements of appliances, consumer goods and industrial products.

Efficiency: Our paste systems are compact in size yet boast high power density.

Tailored electronics materials support

At Vibrantz, we are committed to responsible manufacturing and product management while supporting global goals to reduce GHG emissions. We understand that the shift toward electrification may seem overwhelming, and we provide world-class products that make getting there easier.

Contact our team to learn more about our customized electronic materials solutions and how we can help you plug into the electrification movement.

Building & Construction, Paints and coatings

Maximizing energy efficiency with cool colors

27 March 2024 3 mins

The use of air conditioning (AC) for residential and commercial use is increasingly common, especially in the world’s hotter regions, putting enormous strain on electricity. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), cooling is the fastest growing use of energy in buildings, with the global demand expected to triple by 2050, presenting significant challenges for energy sustainability, accessibility and affordability.

Architects, builders and urban planners seek eco-friendly solutions that address the escalating demand for cooling while mitigating the environmental impact of traditional approaches. Innovative technologies like near infrared (NIR) reflective pigments and dispersions, or “cool colors,” are increasingly utilized in building and construction design to significantly reduce the amount of heat absorbed by structures, lessening the reliance on AC systems.

Sustainable solutions for urban living

By mitigating the absorption of solar radiation in comparison with other pigments in same color space, these colors reduce the impact of the urban heat island effect, a phenomenon where urban areas experience higher temperatures than surrounding rural areas. The vast expanses of concrete, asphalt and other heat-absorbing dark surfaces prevalent in cities primarily cause this effect. This excess heat can lead to various issues, including increased energy consumption for cooling, elevated air pollution levels and discomfort for residents.

Incorporating cool colors into building exteriors and urban infrastructure can help create a more comfortable and healthier urban environment for residents. Additionally, cooler surfaces can help lower AC demands, decreasing greenhouse gas emissions associated with energy production. As cities grapple with rising temperatures and the challenges of climate change, integrating cool colors into urban landscapes is a simple yet impactful strategy to enhance sustainability and resilience.

Achieve cooler temperatures without compromising aesthetics or performance

Beyond energy efficiency, cool colors also improve the durability of exterior coatings in buildings, roofs, pavement and cement. Enhanced protection against thermal stress ensures building and construction materials maintain their aesthetic appeal for over time, reducing the need for frequent maintenance. This translates into cost savings and a longer life span for building exteriors and materials, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable building practices.

At the core of cool colors are NIR pigments and dispersions designed to reflect a higher percentage of sunlight compared to traditional coatings. This innovative approach to color science maximizes energy efficiency and empowers architects and designers with a wide range of design possibilities.

Enhance energy efficiency with Vibrantz’s cool colors

Vibrantz is a leading supplier of “cool colors” –– NIR reflective pigments and dispersions designed to help lower heat absorption of building exteriors to improve energy efficiency. Our cool colors are proven to:

Improve building efficiency by up to 20%
Reduce AC consumption, lowering energy bill costs
Increase the durability of exterior materials

In addition to exteriors, our cool colors are commonly used in coatings for roofs, walls, asphalt and cement materials. As primary contact points with sunlight and heat, these materials are critical for implementing energy-efficient solutions in urban environments with hotter climates.

Our team of color scientists offers technical support through formulation development, testing capabilities and customized energy savings estimation tools.

A multifaceted solution for a sustainable future

Cool colors cater to a more environmentally responsible building and construction industry and ushers in a future when energy-efficient buildings become the norm. The adoption of cool colors not only addresses the challenges posed by the increasing demand for cooling systems but also paves the way for a more sustainable future. Contact us to learn more about the impact cool colors can have on sustainable building practices.

Plastics

Promoting recyclability with near infrared pigments

Plastics